Vietnamese Beef Pho

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There’s something magical about a bowl of Vietnamese Beef Pho. With its richly spiced broth, tender beef slices, and delicate rice noodles, this dish brings warmth and depth with every spoonful. It’s comfort food in its most aromatic form, layered with fresh herbs, citrusy lime, and a touch of chili for that slow-building heat.

Whether you’re chasing away the chill on a cold day or seeking a deeply satisfying lunch, pho offers a nourishing experience steeped in tradition. It may look intricate, but once you understand the flow of building the broth and assembling the toppings, it becomes a soul-soothing ritual.

What Kind of Noodles Should I Use for Pho?

For an authentic pho experience, opt for flat rice noodles, often labeled as “banh pho.” Medium-width noodles work best as they hold up well in hot broth without becoming mushy. Avoid overly thin noodles which can overcook too fast and lose texture.

Ingredients for the Vietnamese Beef Pho

Beef Bones: These create the base of your broth, releasing deep umami and collagen when simmered over hours.

Beef Sirloin or Eye of Round: Thinly sliced and added raw to the hot broth to gently cook, providing tender bites.

Rice Noodles (Banh Pho): The core starch of this dish, they carry the broth beautifully with each slurp.

Onion & Ginger: Charred for deeper flavor, these aromatics are essential for a rich and complex broth.

Star Anise, Cloves, Cinnamon Stick, Cardamom: These spices infuse the broth with traditional pho fragrance.

Fish Sauce: Brings saltiness and umami. Use high-quality fish sauce for best results.

Rock Sugar: Balances the savory elements with a hint of sweetness.

Fresh Herbs (Thai Basil, Cilantro, Mint): These brighten the bowl with bursts of freshness.

Bean Sprouts, Lime Wedges, Jalapeño Slices, Green Onion: The toppings provide texture, heat, and acidity.

Hoisin Sauce & Sriracha: Optional, but great for dipping or swirling into the broth.

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How To Make the Vietnamese Beef Pho

Step 1: Char the Aromatics

Slice the onion in half and cut the ginger lengthwise. Char both over an open flame or in a broiler until blackened and fragrant. This adds smoky depth to your broth.

Step 2: Prepare the Broth Base

Parboil beef bones for 5 minutes to remove impurities. Rinse clean. In a large stockpot, add the bones, charred aromatics, and enough water to cover. Simmer and skim for clarity.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Toast the spices (star anise, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom) in a dry pan until fragrant. Tie in cheesecloth or use a spice bag, then add to the broth. Let the broth simmer uncovered for 4-6 hours.

Step 4: Strain and Season

Strain the broth and return to heat. Add fish sauce, rock sugar, and adjust seasoning to taste. Keep the broth hot until serving.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 30 minutes, then boil briefly until just tender. Rinse with cold water to stop cooking.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowl

In each serving bowl, place cooked noodles and raw thinly sliced beef. Ladle hot broth directly over the meat to cook it instantly. Top with herbs, sprouts, lime, jalapeño, and sauces as desired.

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How to Serve and Store Vietnamese Beef Pho

Serve pho immediately while the broth is piping hot to cook the beef slices. Let guests customize their bowls with herbs, sauces, and lime wedges. Leftover broth can be refrigerated up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Store noodles and toppings separately to prevent sogginess.

What to Serve With Vietnamese Beef Pho?

Fresh Spring Rolls

Light and refreshing, packed with shrimp, rice noodles, and veggies, perfect for dipping in peanut sauce.

Pickled Vegetables

Add a crunchy, tangy contrast to the warm, rich pho.

Vietnamese Iced Coffee

The sweet, strong brew is the ideal pairing to round out the meal.

Crispy Egg Rolls

A deep-fried, savory starter that balances well with pho’s brothy nature.

Green Papaya Salad

Bright, acidic, and spicy—a crunchy textural counterpoint.

Shrimp Crackers

Crisp and airy, these make for a fun snack or side.

Thai Basil Limeade

A sweet, herby refresher that complements the spice and depth of the broth.

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Want More Soup Ideas with a Twist?

If this comforting Vietnamese Beef Pho hit the spot, explore more cozy favorites:

• Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup with velvety richness.
• A Hearty Bowl of Comfort: Tuscan Bean Soup for rustic satisfaction.
• Italian Sausage Soup packed with bold flavors.
• Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup when you’re craving something spicy and aromatic.
• Wendy’s Copycat Chili in the Slow Cooker for nostalgic comfort.

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I’d love to hear your twist on this pho—did you add oxtail? Try it with brisket? Or maybe swapped in chicken? Let’s talk in the comments. And don’t hesitate to ask questions—we’re building a community of home cooks who uplift each other.

Explore more nourishing bowls, cozy soups, and feel-good meals right here at ChefAlchemy—where flavor meets comfort.

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